The Role of Colour in Brand Identity
Pantone recently announced its Colour of the Year for 2025, and I don’t know about you, but I really hope dull old Mocha Mousse doesn’t predict the vibes for the year ahead…
A rich, warm brown that aims to embody comfort and timeless elegance, Mocha Mousse is a grounding colour that aligns with recent consumer preferences for natural, calming aesthetics. For small businesses, integrating such a tone into branding can resonate deeply with audiences looking for comfort and authenticity in an ever-changing world.
Courtesy of Pantone
OK, I get it… even brown has a place. And love it or hate it, our reactions show how critical colour is in crafting a compelling brand identity. It has the power to evoke emotions, influence decisions, and create memorable associations. For small businesses, choosing the right colour palette is about more than aesthetics - it’s about communicating the essence of the brand to customers and standing out against the competition.
Why Colour Matters in Branding
Colours evoke psychological responses and are often tied to cultural or emotional connotations. For instance:
Warm colours (reds, oranges, and yellows) convey energy, excitement, and enthusiasm.
Cool colours (blues and greens) are associated with calm, trust, and professionalism.
Neutral tones often exude stability, warmth, and sophistication.
Choosing a colour palette that aligns with your brand values helps convey the right message to your audience. A mismatched palette can confuse potential customers or give the wrong impression about your business, making colour selection a strategic decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly.
Colour Trends for 2025
In addition to Mocha Mousse, predicted colour trends for the year ahead include:
Earthy neutrals like Baltic Amber and Cannoli Cream, which pair well with brown for understated elegance.
Rich jewel tones like Chocolate Martini and Winery, adding depth and drama to palettes.
Pastels and playful hues, including Cornflower Blue and Rose Tan, which can lighten and balance more grounded tones
While I’m sad to see the back of more vibrant trends like 2023’s Viva Magenta or Very Peri from 2022, these more muted colours highlight a trend toward blending comfort with creativity. Businesses can experiment by pairing Mocha Mousse with complementary shades to create a palette that is both versatile and visually appealing.
Tips for Small Businesses Choosing a Colour Palette
Understand Your Audience: Know the emotions and values you want to evoke in your customers.
Stay True to Your Brand: Select colours that reflect your mission, industry, and personality.
Test Before Committing: Experiment with different combinations in digital and physical formats to ensure cohesion.
If you’re a colour lover like me, check out this article by the US House Beautiful magazine – which features every Pantone Colour of the Year since 2000. And if you’re considering a brand refresh in 2025 – or would just like to give your business a recognisable identity – drop me a line at amanda@doecreates.co.uk